Controversial incinerator delayed 23/9/14
Western Isles planners have delayed plans to build a controversial animal-
The environment committee is seeking a report over the handling of the waste.
George MacDonald intends to build the facility in the present bus garage near fuel pumps at Crossroads filling station in Benbecula.
The plant would burn dead fish and waste from salmon farms which are presently buried onland.
Councillors heard 43 objections plus a 35-
Cllr Ronnie Mackinnon told the planning committee: “This development is needed in the Southern Isles.”
He said it is a “shame” it was not in a better location which could also allow expansion in the future.
To reduce the risk of nasty odours, the incinerator plant would only operate between 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
In addition, all dead fish and waste must be burnt on the day they arrive on site.
The operator is not allowed to store materials in the open and all waste including storage boxes must be kept inside the building.
Mr Macdonald submission to planners said: “I am offering a new method of dealing with an existing waste product. The primary waste stream I am aiming to cater for is the waste from local fish farms.
“Fish farming in the Uists is fast becoming one of the largest industries we have, if not already there.
“The largest problem with that industry is dealing with the waste. My proposal offers the best solution to this problem in terms of waste management and environmental safety as well as offering a significant reduction in landfill requirements and resulting in a reusable product.”
He pointed out the building is already on an industrial site and “odour from this unit is negligible“ while there will be “no waste stored on site.”